Flashback Friday: Carmen and the House That Gaudí Built

For Flashback Friday this week we are talking about Carmen and the House That Gaudi Built by Susan Hughes and Marianne Ferrer. Originally published back in March, this beautiful picture book tackles the difficulty of transitioning to a new city, celebrates the feeling of home, and teaches young readers about a remarkable architect’s work.

While this may seem like a lot to ask for one picture book, Susan Hughes effortlessly weaves a story of a young girl named Carmen Batlló and her family who are planning to move from the country home to a modern house in Barcelona. Carmen doesn’t want to leave her home, and she is hesitant to interact with Senor Gaudí, the architect her family has hired to build their new home. Carmen chooses to hide with Dragon, her invisible salamander, and observe from a distance. It’s not until Carmen visits Barcelona and sees the progress on her new home that she understands the potential of the house that Gaudí built.

As much as I love the story, I simply cannot get over these illustrations! Marianne Ferrer captures the essence of Casa Batlló (the house that inspired this story) all the way down to the amazing color pallet. Every page is absolutely brilliant.

Though this is a fictionalized origin story of Casa Batlló, Carmen and the House That Gaudi Built is complete with a wonderful Author’s note that provides young readers with more information about the Antoni Gaudí and the real Casa Batlló.

You can pick up your very own copy of Carmen and the House That Gaudí Built wherever books are sold, including Bookshop and Amazon. (Please note: Some links provided are affiliate links. Affiliate links allow me to receive a small commission for recommendations at no cost to you. This commission is used to maintain this site and to continue bringing content to you. I always appreciate your support!)

Thank you so much to Owl Kids for providing me with a review copy of such a wonderful book!

About The Author:

Susan Hughes has written more than 30 books for children of all ages, including Off to Class and What Happens Next. Susan is a freelance editor, writer, and story coach. She lives in Toronto, Ontario.

About The Illustrator:

Marianne Ferrer is an illustrator living in Montreal, Quebec. She moved to Canada from Venezuela, trading mango trees for maple trees to inspire her lush, nature-filled, delicate watercolor illustrations.

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